Work has started to resurface the broken tiles on a walkway along Jalan Metro Prima, Taman Kepong in Kuala Lumpur. The uneven walkway has been a safety hazard for pedestrians, especially wheelchair users. The repairs are part of a two-phase plan that is scheduled to be completed by the end of this year. The work, which began in August, will cover approximately 1.3km from the KFC in front of Aeon Big in Jalan Kepong to the Jesus Caritas Catholic church in Jalan Metro Prima. Mohd Nor Asham Suradi, the Deputy Director of Kuala Lumpur City Council (DBKL) Road Maintenance Unit, stated that this will ensure a seamless connection from the church to the Kepong Baru wet market for pedestrians.
Wheelchair users unable to access the pavement have to use Jalan Metro Prima despite the proximity to fast-moving traffic on the road.
Mohd Nor added that the walkway will be given a concrete finish, which is more durable and solid compared to tiles that break easily. Additionally, it is difficult to replace a broken tile, so the switch to concrete is expected to be better and safer in the long run. The issue of the broken tiles on the walkway was raised by Yee Poh Ping, the head of Kepong Community Service Centre, after receiving complaints last year from a wheelchair user at the junction of Jalan Kuang Bertam and Jalan Metro Prima.
Yee Poh Ping mentioned that many people with disabilities use this walkway to access nearby supermarkets to sell tissue paper or lottery tickets. However, the damaged tiles made it difficult for wheelchair users, especially those without motorised wheelchairs, as they were unable to lift and push themselves over the uneven surface. Some parts of the walkway had gaps that impeded wheelchair users, forcing them onto the road itself, putting them at risk of being hit by vehicles.
Yee Poh Ping also highlighted that the kerbs should not be too high as it would be difficult for wheelchair users to access the pavement. The walkway also serves as a jogging track for other residents, therefore, safe and convenient access is crucial, especially for people with disabilities. Yee expressed gratitude to DBKL for their effort and hard work in finding solutions for the benefit of the residents.
Credit: The Star : Metro Feed
